In a society ever more dependent on technology, protection of privacy and personal data is key. Those who work in the health care industry must be particularly vigilant. In the past several years, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act’s (HIPAA’s) privacy and security rules have become more stringent. Not only health care providers, but also those who work with them, must be aware of how to protect data. If you provide cloud-based technology to the health care industry, stay abreast of advances in the field meant to protect yourself as well as your colleagues.

As the 21st century healthcare continues to evolve, increasing numbers of physicians and other health care providers are relying on telemedicine. Currently, there are at least 42 telehealth portals in America, including TeleDoc, Doctor on Demand, and America Well. They encompass almost every segment of the health care industry, from primary care to fitness to mental health. However, many physicians are concerned about the legality of telehealth, despite positive patient outcomes.

Cloud technology, video conferencing, and telepresence has infiltrated nearly every industry and business—including healthcare. You might think such a high-touch, personal field like medicine would not lend itself to long-distance communications, but telemedicine continues to grow, with the latest technology driving costs down and making the process affordable to more healthcare providers and their patients.

As telemedicine’s popularity increases, so do positive patient outcomes. However, telemedicine is not only a positive development for patients. Health care providers across all segments of the industry have experienced the benefits of telehealth. Video conferencing allows health care providers to set their own schedules with reduced travel and avoid the “assembly line” nature of healthcare today. Doctors who have experience with telemedicine praise the technology for helping them deepen patient relationships and stay competitive in the marketplace.

Since 2000, telemedicine has become increasingly popular. In fact, according to Accenture, health care is the second-fastest growing field within the technology industry. In 2010, there were four telemedicine portals available; now there are 42. These include America Well, TeleDoc, and Doctor on Demand.